3 Reasons Why Your Furnace Isn’t Staying Lit and How to Fix It

A malfunctioning furnace is a hassle to put up with. There are lots of reasons this might happen, but one of the most likely is an issue with the burners or relevant systems.

Newer models don’t count on pilot lights to keep the furnace lit. Instead, they use electronic ignition. If this ignition stops working correctly, the burners will not perform like they should.

When your gas furnace is performing properly, here’s how it should work:

    • The thermostat directs your furnace to turn on.
    • Your furnace’s draft inducer fan turns on to bring fresh air through your furnace.
    • The gas valve opens to move gas into the pilot burner.
    • An electronic spark lights the pilot light.
    • The flame sensor informs your furnace that the pilot has been ignited.
    • The gas valve moves gas to the central burners, which are lit by the pilot light.
    • Your furnace then moves warm air into your house via ductwork.

If something fails during this process, your furnace will turn off for safety reasons. Or it might turn off a few minutes into heating because it’s too warm.

Several of these issues can be repaired on their own, but others need professional servicing. When you are looking for the top furnace repair in the U.S., call our heating Experts at . We have experience with all brands and our service is backed by a 100% Satisfaction Guarantee for a year.*

Here are a few of the typical reasons why your heater isn’t staying lit and what to do to fix it.

1. Malfunctioning Flame Sensor

Your furnace’s flame sensor is a safety component that tells your furnace when gas is ignited. If the sensor is dirty or malfunctioning, it may work inconsistently or not at all. Even if the sensor is running normally, misaligned positioning leaves it unable to recognize the flame to begin with. While you can start troubleshooting and cleaning this sensor right away, contacting a pro like Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing will make sure the problem is fixed swiftly and correctly.

2. Overheated Furnace

Your furnace utilizes built-in safety features that force a shutdown if it gets especially hot. One of the most common causes is a dirty filter. We recommend checking your air filter each month. If you can’t see light through it, change it.

3. Thermostat is Malfunctioning

Your thermostat directs your furnace when it needs to heat your residence. When it’s not working as it’s supposed to, your furnace will struggle to keep your house warm. This can be a battery or electrical malfunction, depending on what model of thermostat you use. We encourage reviewing your owner’s manual or manufacturer’s website for relevant troubleshooting procedures. If you still can’t get yours working, get in touch with our Experts at . We’ll find the problem right away and can replace your thermostat, if that is required.

Some of these issues, like a dirty flame sensor or an overheated furnace, are due to a lack of routine furnace maintenance. It’s vital to have this service done yearly, because it might help minimize breakdowns, enhance your furnace’s energy efficiency and can even make it live longer.

We Have You Covered When It’s Time for Furnace Replacement

Inevitably work like it used to despite attempts to repair or maintain it. When the time comes, consider Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing and our quality furnace replacement in the U.S.. We partner with some of the number one furnace brands, including Lennox®, to offer you affordable, energy-efficient heating systems.

When you’re thinking about replacing your furnace, consider taking advantage of our Advantage Program™. Buying a new furnace can run thousands of dollars out of pocket. As an Advantage member, you’ll get a new furnace for just one affordable monthly fee. There’s no down payment or installation charges, and you get to hold on to any beneficial rebates.

What’s even better is that Advantage members don’t pay a dime for repairs** or maintenance. If disaster hits, you’re protected with 24/7 priority service. You’ll also enjoy discounts, no hidden charges and several other benefits.

Don’t put up with interruptions to your comfort for a moment longer. Give Service Experts Heating, Air Conditioning & Plumbing a call at to schedule an appointment today. Whether you want repairs or if it’s time for a new furnace, we guarantee your satisfaction.


*Not applicable to the Advantage Program. See your signed Advantage Program agreement for full details and exclusions. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is subject to certain restrictions and limitations as set forth in the applicable Terms and Conditions. **See your signed Advantage Agreement for details.

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© 2024 Service Experts, Service Experts Heating & Air Conditioning, and the Service Experts logo and design are registered trademarks of Service Experts LLC and used under license by SE Canada Inc. All Rights Reserved. *Not applicable to the Advantage Program. See your signed Advantage Program Agreement for full details and exclusions. 100% Satisfaction Guarantee is subject to certain restrictions and limitations as set forth in the applicable Terms and Conditions.